Solva Travel Guide
Discover the best attractions, activities, food, accommodations, and travel tips in Solva, Pembrokeshire, Wales with our ultimate tour guide.
- Introduction to Solva
- List of Places to Visit in Solva
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Solva
- The Pembrokeshire Coast Path
- Celtic Trail Cycle Route
- Best Things to Do in Solva: Activities and Tours
- Coasteering
- Boat Trips to Visit Skomer Island
- Week-Long Itinerary for Solva
- Food and Drink Scene of Solva
- Where to Stay in Solva: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Solva: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Solva Woollen Mill Products
- Crab and Lobster Pottery
- Local Culture and Customs of Solva
- Best Time to Visit Solva
- Do’s and Don’ts of Solva
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Solva: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Solva
- Where to Go Next from Solva: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Solva
Solva is a picturesque village located in the heart of Pembrokeshire, South Wales, United Kingdom. This quaint fishing village is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. Solva is known for its striking harbor, colorful houses, and a vibrant food scene. The village offers an ideal escape for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.
List of Places to Visit in Solva
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
St. David’s Cathedral
St. David’s Cathedral is located just a few miles from Solva and is one of the most important religious landmarks in Wales. This stunning cathedral is the final resting place of St. David, the patron saint of Wales.
Solva Woollen Mill
Solva Woollen Mill is a historic mill which has been producing textiles since the 1900s. The mill specializes in traditional Welsh blankets, throws, and scarves made from pure wool. Visitors can admire the weaving process by taking a guided tour of the mill.
Natural Attractions of Solva: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Porthdinllaen Peninsula
The Porthdinllaen Peninsula is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Wales. The walk takes visitors through open fields and hillsides, ancient woodlands, and along dramatic cliffs. Prepare to experience fresh sea breezes, beautiful scenery, and breathtaking views – a perfect way to get away from it all.
Havering Beach
Havering Beach is a hidden gem that not many tourists know about. This secluded beach is located on the coast of St. Brides Bay, a few miles from Solva. It boasts stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. Take a picnic, relax, and soak up the sunshine.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Solva
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a 186-mile-long walking trail that runs along the entire length of the Pembrokeshire coastline, including Solva. This trail offers a range of stunning landscapes, with cliffs, beaches, and hidden coves. This coastal path offers views of the sea and is great for spotting wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and seabirds.
Celtic Trail Cycle Route
The Celtic Trail Cycle Route is a 377-mile signposted cycle route that explores the whole of South Wales, passing through Solva. This trail is ideal for cyclists of all levels with scenic routes passing through ancient woodlands, seaside towns and villages.
Best Things to Do in Solva: Activities and Tours
Coasteering
Coasteering is an adventure activity that involves jumping, scrambling, and climbing along the coastline. This is a great way to discover the hidden coves, caves, and cliffs around Solva.
Boat Trips to Visit Skomer Island
Boat trips to Skomer Island are a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts. Skomer Island is home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, and is known for its stunning scenery. Book a boat trip in advance to avoid disappointment.
Week-Long Itinerary for Solva
Day 1: Explore Solva Village Day 2: Go on a coastal walk to Porthclais Harbour. Day 3: Take a guided tour of St. David’s Cathedral. Day 4: Relax on Havering Beach. Day 5: Go coasteering. Day 6: Go for a bike ride on the Celtic Trail. Day 7: Boat trip to Skomer Island.
Food and Drink Scene of Solva
Must-Try Dishes
Solva is well-known for its fresh seafood. Don’t miss out on trying the following dishes:
- Fresh Crab Sandwich
- Solva Lobster
- Homemade Fish Pie
Local Beverages
Solva has a vibrant pub scene with local beers, wines, and spirits. Don’t miss out on trying the following local drinks:
- Pembrokeshire Ale
- Cwm Deri Vineyard Wine
- Hallets Cider
Where to Stay in Solva: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Solva has several accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, campsites, and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Solva are:
- Twr y Felin Hotel
- The Cambrian Inn
- YHA Pembrokeshire (Hostel)
What to Buy in Solva: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Solva Woollen Mill Products
Solva Woollen Mill products are made from the finest Welsh wool. These textiles are the perfect souvenir to bring home, making a great gift for friends and family.
Crab and Lobster Pottery
Crab and Lobster Pottery is a local craft shop where visitors can buy handmade ceramics and pottery.
Local Culture and Customs of Solva
Solva is a close-knit community, and visitors are welcomed with open arms. The Welsh language is still spoken here, and visitors should take the time to appreciate the unique culture and customs of this small village.
Best Time to Visit Solva
The best time to visit Solva is in the summer months, from June to August when the weather is generally warm and sunny. However, visitors should be aware that this is also the busiest time of year and accommodation can be expensive.
Do’s and Don’ts of Solva
Do:
- Respect the local culture and customs.
- Take care when exploring the coastline and follow safety signs.
- Support local businesses by buying locally produced goods.
Don’t:
- Litter the countryside or coastline.
- Forget to book accommodation in advance.
Safety and Health
Safety in Solva
While Solva is a safe place to visit, visitors should take the following precautions:
- Take care when exploring the coastline and follow safety signs.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
Health in Solva
Solva has a good range of medical facilities, including pharmacies and a doctor’s surgery.
Getting to Solva: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Solva
- Cardiff Airport (110 miles away)
- Bristol Airport (126 miles away)
Bus Stations Near Solva
- St. David’s Bus Station (3.2 miles away)
- Haverfordwest Bus Station (12 miles away)
Other Options
- Train to Haverfordwest Railway Station (12 miles away)
- Car rental available in both Cardiff and Bristol Airports
How to Get Around in Solva
Solva is a small village and can easily be explored on foot. The coastal paths are great for hiking and cycling, and visitors can rent bicycles from local shops.
Where to Go Next from Solva: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- St. Davids (3.2 miles away)
- Preseli Hills (13 miles away)
- Pembroke Castle (22 miles away)
Conclusion
Solva is a hidden gem on the Welsh coastline and offers an excellent escape for visitors seeking beautiful scenery, outdoor adventures and a warm Welsh welcome. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and delicious food scene, Solva has something for everyone. A trip to Solva will leave visitors refreshed and wanting to come back for more.
